OLYMPIA New recycling and composting stations at Burfoot Park and Kennydell Lodge can help park visitors reduce the amount of trash headed for the landfill. Labeled containers will be on site for the collection of plastic bottles, cans and paper; glass bottles and jars and compostable food items.

A significant amount of waste coming from our parks is recyclable or compostable, says Thurston County Parks Manager Kerry Hibdon. Items like napkins, paper cups and plates, and pizza boxes dont need to be sent to the landfill in eastern Washington when they can be turned into compost locally for a quarter of the cost. Its a win-win situation for the environment and reducing disposal costs.

All compostable material goes to Silver Springs Organics, a commercial composting facility in Rainier. The new recycling stations at Burfoot park are made from 98% recycled HDPE plastic (recycled plastic bags and bottles), the highest percentage of recycled content possible.

This is a fantastic opportunity to not only reduce garbage volumes coming from the park, but also to encourage park visitors to start thinking differently about their waste, says Solid Waste Educator Amber Smith.

Master Recycler and Master Composter volunteers will be on hand to discuss the recycling and composting program at a kick-off event on Saturday, August 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Burfoot Park. Volunteers will also visit Burfoot Park on weekends throughout the summer to provide information.

Were serious about our goal to conserve resources and enhance the quality of life for current and future residents, says Smith. “In order to achieve that goal we need to practice reducing waste and make recycling at home, at work, and at play the norm.”

For more information about the recycling program with Thurston County Parks visit www.co.thurston.wa.us/parks or call Kerry Hibdon at (360) 867-2181. For general information on waste reduction and recycling opportunities in Thurston County visit www.ThurstonCountySolidWaste.org or call (360) 867-2491.
From the Thurston County Solid Waste Press Release.